The first week after surgery can feel like the longest seven days of your life. Your body is healing, your routine has shifted, and comfort suddenly feels like a luxury. But here’s the good news: what you do in recovery week one makes a huge difference in how smoothly the rest of your healing journey goes.
Whether you’ve just had abdominal surgery, hernia repair, or cosmetic surgery, this is the time to give your body the best possible start. From support garments to proper nutrition, here are the top 5 things to do during recovery week one to stay on track.
1. Prioritize Rest — But Move Smart
Rest is your body’s #1 tool for repair. Sleep and downtime allow your body to rebuild tissue and reduce swelling. That said, too much bed rest can actually slow recovery.
Pro tip: Take short, gentle walks around your home a few times a day. This helps with circulation, prevents stiffness, and lowers the risk of blood clots. Think “light movement,” not “exercise.”
2. Wear the Right Compression Garment
Here’s where many patients make mistakes — choosing the wrong garment or the wrong size. The right compression vest or tank provides:
✅ Support for your incision area
✅ Reduced swelling and discomfort
✅ Better posture and mobility
✅ Confidence when moving around
How To Choose The Right Garment
If you’re wondering how to choose vest size for your recovery garment, here’s the simple rule:
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Always measure your chest circumference in inches with a tape measure.
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Compare it against the brand’s sizing chart (for example: Small 32-35, Medium 36-39, Large 40-44, and so on).
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Never “size down” for tighter compression—it can restrict breathing and circulation.
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At LegaForm, we recommend our Men’s Compression Gynecomastia Vest Tank or Cotton Spandex Support Tank because both are made in the USA, medical-grade, and designed for all-day comfort.
3. Stay on Top of Nutrition & Hydration
Your body is doing some heavy lifting behind the scenes. Protein helps repair tissue, vitamins support immunity, and water keeps everything flowing.
Here’s what you want on your plate during recovery week one:
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Lean proteins (chicken, eggs, fish) for muscle repair
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Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nuts) to reduce inflammation
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Vitamin-rich fruits and veggies for faster healing
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6–8 glasses of water daily to stay hydrated
Skip processed junk foods and alcohol—your body needs real fuel right now.
4. Follow Doctor’s Orders (Even When You Feel Okay)
It’s common to feel a little “better than expected” a few days in. But don’t confuse reduced pain with being fully healed.
Take your medications on schedule, attend follow-up appointments, and stick to the lifting or movement restrictions your doctor outlined. Overdoing it in week one can undo your progress and stretch recovery much longer.
5. Create a Comfortable Healing Environment
Your surroundings matter more than you think. Set up your space for comfort and easy access:
✅ Keep pillows handy for propping up or supporting your back.
✅ Store medications, snacks, and water within reach.
✅ Prepare a “rest corner” with entertainment—books, podcasts, or your favorite shows—to help pass the time without boredom.
Bonus: Wear recovery garments that are breathable and discreet under clothing, so you don’t feel like you’re “in patient mode” all the time.
Final Thoughts
Week one of recovery sets the tone for the rest of your healing journey. By resting smart, eating well, and choosing the right compression garment size, you’ll feel more comfortable, supported, and confident each day.
If you’re still unsure about how to choose vest size, remember: measure, don’t guess. Proper sizing ensures you get the full benefit of compression without compromising comfort.
Browse our LegaForm collection today and check out customer favorites like the Men’s Compression Vest Shirt—made in the USA with medical-grade quality for your recovery needs.